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What Is a Panic Attack?

Thesymptoms of a panic attackusually happen suddenly, peak within 10 minutes, and then subside.

Anyone can experience a panic attack.

Woman having a panic attack

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Panic Attack Symptoms

Panic attacks usually appear suddenly and lead to intense feelings of fear.

They tend to last around 10 to 20 minutes but can last longer in some instances.

The presence of fewer than four symptoms may be considered alimited-symptompanic attack.

It is possible to have a few isolated panic attacks without recurrence.

Women are also more likely than men to develop anxiety conditions such as panic disorder.

As a result, experts recommend that women and girls aged 13 and older be screened for anxiety conditions.

Treatment options are focused on reducing the frequency and intensity of these attacks.

For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

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